Bamboo to Biochar. Fueling the Carbon Economy -

The Ri-Bhoi biochar initiative in Meghalaya is a community-led programme focused on sustainable bamboo utilisation, with active participation from ERBOFPC (FPC), MBMA – Meghalaya Basin Development Authority, and Compliance Kart. Bamboo suppliers and farmers are integral to the initiative and are organised under ERBOFPC (FPC) in the Ri-Bhoi district, ensuring strong grassroots ownership and participation. Traditionally, bamboo residues and offcuts were either left unused or openly burned, leading to air pollution and loss of potential economic value.

Through this initiative, bamboo waste is converted into biochar, enabling durable carbon removal while creating a productive use for biomass. The biochar is applied to the farmlands of community farmers, in association with ICAR – Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Meghalaya, and MEGNOLIA, to improve soil health and enhance crop productivity.

Beyond its climate impact, the programme is designed to directly benefit community suppliers and farmers, along with ERBOFPC (FPC), through revenue generated from the sale of carbon credits, creating a sustainable and inclusive economic model for the region.